Lobbying

“Lobbying Follows Political Activity Into Dark Money” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

“K Street Review: Some Trends In the World of Lobbying For 2013” by Tess Venden Dolder in Streetwise’s InTheCapital.

“Influential Boeing lobbyist Coffey dies at 86” by The Associated Press in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

Campaign Finance

California: “Former California lawmaker pays state fine, closes committee” in The Sacramento Bee.

Delaware: “Investigation into campaign finance abuse in Delaware may not lead to new laws” by Sean Carlson in WDDE News.

Maine: “Cutler says he wonʹt take PAC money for 2014 race, will run ʹunboughtʹ” by Christopher Cousins in the Bangor Daily News.

Massachusetts: “Coakley moves to fix lingering campaign finance problems” by Frank Phillips in the Boston Globe.

Michigan: “Critics knock Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder for reversal on ʹissue adʹ donor transparency” by Jonathan Oosting in Michigan Live.

Missouri: “Well known political contributor makes large year-end donation” by The Associated Press in KRCG News.

New York: “NYC commissioner of investigation to head Campaign Finance Board” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

North Carolina: “New N.C. campaign finance laws raise limits, soften disclosure” in the News & Record.

Wisconsin: “Campaign finance bill stalls in Senate” by Bob Hague in the Wisconsin Radio Network.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Arkansas Ethics Commission proposes fines, letters of warning and caution to ex-lawmaker” by The Associated Press in The Tribune.

“Arkansas governor asks lieutenant governor to quit over ethics case” by Chuck Bartels (Associated Press) in the Deseret News.

“Lieutenant governor refuses call to resign over ethics flap” in The Columbus Dispatch.

Georgia: “Georgia ethics commission corrects mistake” by Mark Rice in the Ledger-Enquirer.

South Carolina: “State, legislative ethics panels owed money; House committee may pursue fines in court” by Seanna Adcox (Associated Press) in The Republic.

West Virginia: “Beckley mayor leaving office after ethics probe” by Jennifer Smith in the West Virginia Metro News.

In the Legislatures

“The Top 10 Legislative Issues to Watch in 2014” by Chris Kardish, J.B. Wogan, Mike Maciag, Liz Farmer, and Ryan Holeywell in Governing.

“12 State Legislators to Watch in 2014” by Louis Jacobson in Governing.

Elections

“GOP Crafts New Rules To Shorten 2016 Primary Season” by S.V. Dáte on NPR.

Alaska: “Handful of new Alaska laws take effect in new year” by Becky Bohrer in the Anchorage Daily News.

Massachusetts: “Dates set for 2 Mass. House elections” by The Associated Press in The Boston Herald.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Congress wishes Twitter a happy New Year” by Tal Kopan in Politico.

“The Top 5 Government Tech Stories of 2013” by Joseph Marks in NextGov.

“Coming in 2014: Facebook Across Government” by Joseph Marks in NextGov.

Federal:

Political Advertisers and TV Stations Ignore Disclosure Rules

The Sunlight Foundation – Jacob Fenton | Published: 12/18/2013

The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 requires television stations to make available detailed information about political ad buys, including the names of any elected officials mentioned in the ads and any national issues discussed in them. But a review by the Sunlight Foundation reveals TV stations often fail to report even the most basic information about the political ads that outside groups buy on their airwaves.

Upstart Groups Challenge Rove for G.O.P. Cash

New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 12/23/2013

At least a dozen super PACs are setting up to back individual Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate, challenging the strategic and financial dominance that Karl Rove and the group he co-founded, American Crossroads, have enjoyed ever since the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision cleared the way for unlimited independent spending. Some are suggesting Crossroads’ ties to the Republican establishment and recent clashes with conservative activists are a potential liability for GOP incumbents facing tea party challengers.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Common Cause Seeks New Limits on Gifts to California Officials

Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 12/19/2013

California Common Cause proposed reforms to the state’s gift law to reduce the ability of special interests to seek favor by providing expensive meals, lodging, and travel. The group’s recommendations include applying the $10-per-month limit on gifts from lobbyists to also include gifts from the lobbyists’ clients, and reduce the limit on gifts that can be accepted by state elected officials from $440 per source annually to $250.

Georgia – State Ethics Commission Approves Hiring of ‘Internal Mediator’

WABE – Michelle Wirth | Published: 12/19/2013

The Georgia ethics commission hired former administrative law judge Robert Constantine to help with daily operations while federal authorities probe the agency’s investigation into Gov. Nathan Deal’s campaign. Several commission members received federal grand jury subpoenas over the matter. Chairperson Kevin Abernathy said Constantine will serve as an intermediary between the commission and staff members, and will have the ability to help resolve any disputes among agency employees.

Louisiana – Five Years Later, Does Gov. Bobby Jindal’s Ethics System Work?

Baton Rouge Advocate – Marsha Shuler and Mark Ballard | Published: 12/22/2013

At his January 2008 inauguration, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal announced a special legislative session to repair the state’s ethics system, saying he wanted to create a “gold standard.” Some observers say the decrease in violations shows the changes gummed up the works by making proceedings more like criminal prosecutions, with more lawyers, motions, and delays. Supporters of the changes argue the previous system was simply unfair.

Maryland – Half of Md. Lawmakers with Twitter Accounts Neglect to Comply with Disclosure Rule

Washington Post – John Wagner | Published: 12/20/2013

All candidates in Maryland are supposed to include an “authority line” when they promote themselves on social media. The Washington Post identified 92 Twitter accounts maintained by the state’s 188 senators and delegates. Of those, only 45 included authority lines that identify the name of the campaign entity and its treasurer.

Maryland – Md. Elections Board: Brown’s running mate can raise money during legislative session

Washington Post – John Wagner | Published: 12/19/2013

The State Board of Elections cleared the way for Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown’s gubernatorial campaign to raise money during the legislative session despite a law preventing state officials from seeking contributions during that period. The ruling addressed the issue of gubernatorial candidates and their political partners seeking to be lieutenant governor. While Brown, as a state official, cannot raise money during the session, his running mate, Howard County Executive Ken Ulman, is a local official and thus free to do so.

New York – To Catch a Lobbyist: NYC ordinance aims to catch those flouting registration and vastly expands covered activities

Lexology.com – Alexandra Megaris | Published: 12/17/2013

The New York City Council passed an ordinance revising the lobbying law. The definition of “lobbying” has been expanded, the schedule for filing reports was changed, and the dollar threshold for determining whether registration is required has been increased from $2,000 to $5,000 per calendar year, among other provisions. Most of the law takes effect on May 8, 2014; the registration threshold will become effective on January 1.

Oklahoma – Lawmakers’ Disclosures Reveal Little on Finances

Tulsa World – Curtis Killman | Published: 12/23/2013

Some are questioning what is required to be reported and the value of the information revealed to the public on Oklahoma lawmakers’ financial disclosure reports. In an age of growing transparency, the disclosure requirements provide little information when compared to congressional standards or those in other states.

Utah – More Swallow Revelations: Pay to play, hidden donations

Salt Lake Tribune – Robert Gehrke | Published: 12/20/2013

Investigators for the House Special Investigative Committee said former Utah Attorney General John Swallow and his predecessor, Mark Shurtleff, gave big donors extraordinary access in exchange for campaign contributions and special favors. The revelations upset committee members and several said they now want to continue the five-month probe that was shut down after Swallow announced his resignation.

Virginia – Chef Speaks Out about Va.’s McDonnells

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman | Published: 12/21/2013

For months, Todd Schneider, the former chef at the governor’s mansion, has been the dramatic but silent figure who launched an investigation that has threatened to bring down Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell. But he said now that his case is resolved and the governor is ending his term, it is time to speak out. It was Schneider who first alerted authorities that businessperson Jonnie Williams had paid for catering at the wedding of one of McDonnell’s daughters, a tip that spiraled into a broad criminal probe that has brought the governor to the brink of federal charges.

Washington – Washington Ethics Panel Tosses Free Meal Complaint, Encourages Legislature to Clarify Statute

Columbus Republic – Rachel LaCorte (Associated Press) | Published: 12/20/2013

The Legislative Ethics Board dismissed a complaint about some Washington lawmakers accepting free meals from lobbyists. The board said if the state Legislature does not address the issue in the 60-day session beginning in January, the panel will work to establish rules on an enforceable standard.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“Bank lobby threatens ‘Volcker Rule’ suit” by Peter Schroeder in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

“Republican National Committee Pays Santa for Travel” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Retiring Members of Congress Hold Over $13 Million in Campaign Accounts” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Montana: “Judge strikes part of campaign finance initiative” by Matthew Brown (Associated Press) in the Miami Herald.

Texas: “For Candidates, the End of the Year is a Deadline” by Ross Ramsey in The Texas Tribune.

Ethics

Michigan: “Former Michigan lawmaker pleads no contest in ponzi scam that defrauded elderly” by Kathleen Gray in the Lansing State Journal.

Ohio: “Former Ohio deputy treasurer pleads guilty to corruption charges” by Kim Palmer in the Chicago Tribune.

Congress

“The Best (or Worst) of Congress in 2013 (Video)” by JM Rieger in Roll Call.

“The 7 Most Important Things Congress Did in 2013 (and the Top 25 Things It Didn’t)” by David Hawkings in Roll Call.

Government Tech and Social Media

“How Social Media Changed in 2013” by Mike Allen in Politico Playbook.

“Federal Agencies Must Rethink Digital Strategies” by Tom Greiner in Information Week.

“New Santa Fe City Website Comes With Hefty Price Tag” by Kiera Hay in Government Technology.

A bill extending through 2018 the authority of the Federal Election Commission to impose civil money penalties on the basis of a schedule of penalties established and published by the commission has passed both houses of Congress. The bill applies the penalties to violations of qualified campaign contribution and expenditure disclosure requirements. House Bill 3487 passed the Senate on Friday December 20, 2013.

Lobbying

“The Life Of A Lobbyist In A Do-Nothing Congress” by Peter Overby on Georgia Public Broadcasting.

“K Street sizes up retiring lawmakers” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Patton Boggs, Locke Lord call off merger talks” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post.

Campaign Finance

Maryland: “Gansler recused himself from state election ruling” by Erin Cox in The Baltimore Sun.

Ohio: “Campaign-finance effort fought” by Josh Jarman in the Columbus Dispatch.

Ethics

“Senate Passes Bill to Expand FEC Fines” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

South Carolina: “House Ethics to hear case over state plane use” by Seanna Adcox (Associated Press) in The Greenville News.

Washington: “Free Meal Complaint Against Lawmakers Dismissed, ‘Serious Concerns’ Remain” by Austin Jenkins in Northwest Public Radio.

Elections

Florida: “Florida elections opinion could make uncovering fraud more difficult” by Patricia Mazzei in the Miami Herald.

State Legislatures

“New Hampshire’s state legislature is nine times larger than Nebraska’s” by Niraj Chokshi in The Washington Post.

Michigan: “2013 in the Michigan Legislature: Some common ground, but more partisan wounds that need to heal” by Jonathan Oosting in Michigan Live.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Half of Md. lawmakers with Twitter accounts neglect to comply with disclosure rule” by John Wagner in The Washington Post.

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics staff has released a revised gift proposal following claims its initial proposed limits were too lax. The new suggested limits are a ban on gifts of more than $100, with a limit of $25 on cash gifts, per calendar year from any source not a family member of the recipient. The initial limits proposed were $200 per year, with a cap of $50 for cash gifts, resulting in outcry from watchdogs.

The new proposed limits were greeted with skepticism, however, because the provision allowing for cash gifts remained. Executive Director Shane Creamer insisted the Board cannot ban cash gifts altogether because the city code permits cash gifts, prompting the Board to decide on formally requesting the City Council to consider amending the code.

The suggested limits could drop yet again before the Board votes, as a number of Board members suggested a $50 annual limit was preferable. The Board could potentially vote on the rules at its January meeting.

Federal:

How Washington Starves its Election Watchdog

The Center for Public Integrity – Dave Levinthal | Published: 12/17/2013

The recent hacking of the FEC’s computer system marked the nadir of a year that ranks among the commission’s darkest, according to an investigation by the Center for Public Integrity. Bitter ideological warfare among commissioners and congressional and White House indifference have yielded an agency less able to fulfill its stated mission: to “prevent corruption in the federal campaign process by administering, enforcing, and formulating policy.”

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Ariz. High Court Upholds Campaign Giving Limits

East Valley Tribune; Associated Press –   | Published: 12/18/2013

The Arizona Supreme Court ruled candidates can accept much larger sums of money from donors. The justices said the Legislature was within its legal right to decide that contenders for both statewide and legislative office can take up to $4,000 from individuals and PACs. The brief order also lifted the injunction an appeals court put in place blocking the higher limits from taking effect.

California – L.A. City Council Drops Push for Increase in Gift Limit

Los Angeles Times – David Zahniser | Published: 12/11/2013

The Los Angeles City Council agreed not to raise the level of gifts that members are allowed to accept from the current $100 per donor per year. Council President Herb Wesson had sought a change in the law to allow members to receive up to $150 in gifts from each supporter, but he dropped that when his and other council members’ offices were deluged with calls.

Colorado – Appeals Court Upholds Ruling against Gessler

Colorado Law Week; Staff –   | Published: 12/12/2013

The Colorado Court of Appeals ruled several changes to campaign finance disclosure regulations made by Secretary of State Scott Gessler were invalid. The court affirmed a lower court ruling that struck down rules that reduced or eliminated disclosure requirements for political committees, and threw out Gessler’s rule that narrowed the definition of “electioneering communications.”

Florida – David Jolly Has Unique Challenge: Lobbyist seeking seat in Congress

Tampa Bay Times – Alex Leary | Published: 12/10/2013

David Jolly parlayed his work as an aide to the late U.S. Rep. C.W. Young into a lobbying career, the quintessential Washington “revolving-door” story. As he pursues the Republican nomination in a congressional special election, opponents have seized on Jolly’s lucrative profession. Many former aides have left for K Street jobs over the years, returning to Capitol Hill to ply a system they know intimately. But it is rare for a lobbyist to run for office, and those who do face the same attacks as Jolly is now.

Georgia – State Sen. Don Balfour Cleared of All Charges

Creative Loafing Atlanta – Max Blau | Published: 12/19/2013

Georgia Sen. Don Balfour was found not guilty on all 18 felony corruption counts against him. He was accused of illegally claiming legislative expense and mileage pay, and double-billing the state and his private employer for some expenses. Balfour told jurors he was very busy as chairperson of the Senate Rules Committee and as an executive of Atlanta-based Waffle House, and the inaccurate filings were unintentional. Gov. Nathan Deal’s office said Balfour’s suspension from office is lifted immediately so he can resume his duties as a senator.

Georgia – Subpoenas Related To Ethics Complaints Involving Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal

Huffington Post – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 12/12/2013

A federal grand jury is investigating the Georgia ethics commission, which cleared Gov. Nathan Deal of campaign finance violations during his 2010 campaign. The grand jury has subpoenaed Executive Secretary Holly LeBarge, staff attorney Elisabeth Murray-Obertein, and staffer John Hair, seeking documents related to the commission’s probe of Deal’s campaign finances. Deal’s lawyer said the investigation likely concerns allegations that documents in the case went missing, and does not involve the governor.

Michigan – Michigan Senate OKs Campaign Donation Increases

Detroit News – Gary Heinlein | Published: 12/12/2013

Michigan lawmakers moved to raise maximum contributions to candidates for the first time in decades and keep intact rules so donors behind certain political ads can stay anonymous. Senate Bill 661 won final approval in the Senate after barely clearing the House a day earlier. Donation limits to candidates would double after going unchanged for 37 years and rise with inflation over time.

Minnesota – Minnesota Lawmakers Probe into Problems with State’s Campaign Finance Data

Minneapolis Star Tribune – Rachel Stassen-Berger and Glen Howatt | Published: 12/16/2013

Minnesota’s campaign finance regulatory agency plans to implement new auditing procedures and seek a law change to deal with errors in its online database of political fundraising transactions. Agency officials testified at a legislative hearing following a Minneapolis Star Tribune analysis that found one in seven electronic records of donations tracked by the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board is incorrect.

Mississippi – Attorney General Jim Hood Appealing Federal Judge’s Ruling on Mississippi Campaign Finance Law

Mississippi Press; Associated Press –   | Published: 12/14/2013

State Attorney General Jim Hood appealed a federal judge’s ruling that part of Mississippi’s campaign finance law creates an unconstitutional burden for people or groups that spend at least $200 to support or oppose a ballot initiative. U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock has said Mississippi may regulate individuals and groups attempting to influence constitutional ballot measures, but its “convoluted and exacting” requirements are too burdensome with the $200 threshold.

New Jersey – Christie’s Top Port Authority Appointee Baroni Resigns amid Escalating Probe into GWB Lane Closures

Bergen Record – Shawn Boburg and John Reitmeyer | Published: 12/13/2013

A burgeoning scandal led to the resignation of Bill Baroni, the deputy executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and David Wildstein, who agreed to step down from his position as director of interstate capital projects. Both men have caught up in a widening investigation into allegations they may have orchestrated a series of massive traffic jams at the George Washington Bridge as political payback against the mayor of Fort Lee, the town at one end of the bridge, for not endorsing Gov. Chris Christie for re-election.

New Mexico – Federal Appeals Court Overturns New Mexico Campaign Funding, Spending Limits

Columbus Republic – Susan Montoya Bryan (Associated Press) | Published: 12/18/2013

The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said a lower court was right in issuing a preliminary injunction to keep New Mexico from imposing limitations on certain contributions going to and from political parties and PACs. At issue is whether political committees that are not formally affiliated with a political party or candidate can receive unlimited contributions for independent expenditures. Republicans argue the state’s cap on such donations is unconstitutional.

New York – Where Albany Does Business

Capital Playbook – Jimmy Vielkind | Published: 12/5/2013

Time and again, the gears of government have turned not during official gatherings in meeting rooms at the New York Capitol, but over dinners and drinks at any number of “power spots” around the Albany region. Stop by any of these sites on a Monday or Tuesday night in January or July and you might be surprised who you run into, or what is going on.

Pennsylvania – Board Still Struggling with Phila. Gift Rule

Philadelphia Inquirer – Claudia Vargas | Published: 12/18/2013

Staff members for the Philadelphia Board of Ethics made their latest recommendation on proposed changes to the city’s gift law. The staff proposed barring city officers and employees from accepting any gifts worth more than $100 per year, including $25 in cash, from any nonfamily source. But the board and other ethics advocates are still not happy with the limits and the overall language.

Virginia – In Probe of Va. Gov. McDonnell, Prosecutors Agreed to Delay Decision on Charges

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman, Carol Leonnig, and Sari Horwitz | Published: 12/19/2013

Federal prosecutors have delayed filing felony charges against Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife over a gift scandal after their legal teams made a face-to-face appeal in Washington, D.C. The attorneys had been pressing Justice Department officials to reconsider or delay the charges, at least long enough for McDonnell to complete his four-year term.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“Top 10 lobbying victories of 2013” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Rhoden: Let’s ban lawmaker lobbying” by David Montgomery in the Argus Leader.

Massachusetts: “Feds indict ex-CFO of firm tied to disgraced lobbyist” by Eric Convey in the Boston Business Journal.

Campaign Finance

Alabama: “Committee looks for way to put teeth in Alabama campaign finance law” by Kim Chandler in The Birmingham News.

Alabama: “New fines for campaign finance violations can’t be enforced by secretary of state” by Kim Chandler in The Birmingham News.

Arkansas: “Ex-legislator admits filing inaccurate campaign finance reports” by John Lyon in Arkansas News.

Arkansas: “Ethics Commission hears report on possible mishandling of funds by Darr” by John Lyon in Arkansas News.

Illinois: “Campaign accounts fund luxuries for some lawmakers” by Kim Geiger in the Chicago Tribune.

New Mexico: “New Mexico campaign spending limits overturned” by Susan Montoya Bryan (Associated Press) in the Houston Chronicle.

Wisconsin: “Campaign finance bill eases restrictions on Wisconsin lobbyists and wealthy contributors” by Jack Craver in The Capital Times.

Ethics

Georgia: “Ethics agency could debate ceding control to outside group” by Greg Bluestein and Shannon McCaffrey in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Elections

California: “State Legislature To Consider Doing Away With Special Elections” by Claire Trageser in KPBS.

State Legislative Issues

Iowa: “Lawmakers gearing up for 2014 work” by Rod Boshart in the Quad-City Times.

Redistricting

Florida: “Legislators destroyed documents during redistricting” by Mary Ellen Klas in the Miami Herald.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Best of the Web & Digital Government Achievement Awards 2013 – Winners Announced” by Janet Grenslitt in Government Technology.

Lobbying

“The Lobbyists’ Lament” by Haley Barbour and Ed Rogers in Politico.

“K St. mints money from regs surge” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

California: “Santa Clara County supervisors move forward on strengthening lobbyist regulations” by Eric Kurhi in the San Jose Mercury News.

Pennsylvania: “Ethics panel clears Penn Foundation in lobbying probe” by Kristen Graham in The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Campaign Finance

Arizona: “Arizona high court upholds higher campaign-contribution limits” by Mary Jo Pitzl in the Arizona Republic.

Colorado: “Court tightens campaign finance, budget showdown coming, more” by Edie Edelstein in the Colorado Springs Independent.

Massachusetts: “Outside spending on mayoral finalists hit $3.8m” by Wesley Lowerey in the Boston Globe.

South Carolina: “SC politics: Ethics panel weighs case against legislator” by Jamie Self in The State.

Ethics

“New FEC Chairman Chosen to Lead Agency During Election Year” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

Massachusetts: “Attorneys testify on ethics conflict proposal” by C. Ryan Barber in the Cape Cod Times.

Massachusetts: “Ethics Commission held at Statehouse; Would exempt political candidates” by Christine Lee in WWLP News.

Congress

“3 reps won’t run again, shaking 2014” by Alex Isenstadt in Politico.

State Legislative Issues

California: “California’s Crucial 2014 Races” by Curtis Tate in Governing.

Illinois: “Quinn drops appeal of lawmaker paycheck lawsuit” by Monique Garcia in the Chicago Tribune.

Pennsylvania: “Pa. House takes historic step toward shrinking size of General Assembly” by Jan Murphy in The Patriot-News.

Government Tech and Social Media

Rhode Island: “R.I. government website removes news stories reprinted without permission” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.

Lobbying

“Poll: Lobbyists rank last on ethics” by Tal Kopan in Politico.

“Business to Boehner: Hit ’em hard” by Ken Bogardus in The Hill.

California: “Report: Special Interest Groups Paid Lobbyists Millions to Influence City Officials” by Alexander Nguyen in the Pacific Palisades Patch.

Campaign Finance

“Politicians move to rake in more campaign cash” by Fredreka Schouten in the Detroit Free Press.

“United Association’s Pipelines Move $651K in Political Funds” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Michigan: “Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signals ʹevolutionʹ on issue ads as campaign finance bill reaches desk” by  Jonathan Oosting in Michigan Live.

Michigan: “Campaign bills win final OK from Mich. Legislature” by Bob Brenzing in WZZM 13 News.

Mississippi: “Attorney General Jim Hood appealing federal judge’s ruling on Mississippi campaign finance law” by The Associated Press in The Mississippi Press.

Missouri: “Mo. legislature to look at campaign ethics laws” by Dan Verbeck on KBIA Mid-Missouri Public Radio.

Ethics

Alaska: “Rep. Bob Herron fined $5,000 for ethics violation” by Jim Paulin in the Bristol Bay Times.

Maine: “Maine campaign ethics panel expands scope of Lewiston casino campaign inquest” by Scott Thistle in the Bangor Daily News.

Ohio: “Concerns raised over Ohio disclosure exemptions” by The Associated Press in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Lobbying

“New lobbying business slows to a trickle” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“For K St., nowhere to go but up” by Kevin Bogardus and Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“Under contract” in The Hill.

“Major Dem fundraiser closes lobby shop” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“ʹLobbyistʹ Not Curse Word to All Influencers” by Dave Levinthal in The Center for Public Integrity.

“Ex-congressman lobbies for group he used to fund” by Paul Singer in USA Today.

“SpaceX Launches Second Lobbying Team” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

San Francisco: “S.F. lobbying laws due for tightening” in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Campaign Finance

“Deals on campaign finance, corruption likely in Albany” by Yancey Roy in Newsday.

“All Senate Freshmen Now Have Personal PACs” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Maine: “Use of ‘large, untraceable expenditures’ to influence Maine elections jumps 600 percent, report says” by Mario Moretto in the Bangor Daily News.

Michigan: “Legislature approves increase in campaign contributions, but says some donors can stay anonymous” by The Associated Press in Crain’s Detroit Business.

Missouri: “Nixon urges Missouri campaign contribution limits” by Bill Draper (Associated Press) in the Columbian Missourian.

Vermont: “Ruling on super PACs may ripple in Vt.” by Neal Goswami in the Times Argus.

Ethics

“The Year in Congressional Ethics | A Question of Ethics” by Simon Davidson in Roll Call.

Alabama: “Alabama ethics Director Jim Sumner wins national award for his work” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Georgia: “Subpoenas related to Ga. gov’s ethics complaints” by Christina A. Cassidy (Associated Press) in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Kentucky: “Former lawmaker won’t face sanctions from House” by Roger Alford (Associated Press) in the San Francisco Chronicle.

West Virginia: “W.Va. ethics panel admits open meetings violation” by The Associated Press in The Herald Dispatch.

West Virginia: “For first time in years, Ethics Commission full” by Phil Kabler in the Charleston Gazette.

Open Government

“This Group Could Make (or Break?) FOIA Reform” by Joseph Marks in Nextgov.

Government Tech and Social Media

“The Future of Election Monitoring” by Jessica McKenzie in TechPresident.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration is currently at odds with the City Ethics Commission. Earlier in the year the Commission inquired as to whether the Department of the Corporation Counsel has the power and duty to advise city employees on matters of ethics.

In a memorandum to all municipal agencies, the Department announced it does have said authority; the Ethics Commission disagrees.

The administrative decision may potentially result in city attorneys and Ethics Commission attorneys offering conflicting advice. Also problematic, the Ethics Commission is insulated from retaliation as an autonomous agency, whereas city attorneys are afforded no such protection.

If nothing else, the memo is likely to cause public confusion as the relationship between administration and Commission deteriorates. Subpoenas may be on the horizon for Mayor Caldwell’s top executives as the Ethics Commission investigates possible corruption in city hall.

National:

ALEC Facing Funding Crisis from Donor Exodus in Wake of Trayvon Martin Row

The Guardian – Ed Pilkington and Suzanne Goldenberg | Published: 12/3/2013

A conservative group that critics say has undue influence on public policy faces a funding crisis and possible legal trouble, show internal documents. The documents indicate the American Legislative Exchange Council is appealing to major donors for help in averting a financial crisis, and is establishing a new project with a different name to help remove “questions of ethical violations made by our critics and state ethics boards,” reported The Guardian.

State Supreme Court Judges Reveal Scant Financial Information

The Center for Public Integrity – Reity O’Brien, Kytja Weir, and Chris Young | Published: 12/4/2013

All 50 states and the District of Columbia have more lax financial disclosure rules for their high court justices than the disclosure requirements for federal judges, according to an analysis by the Center for Public Integrity. Some states do not require any disclosure of gifts to judges; others have limits but with loopholes. The center cited Iowa, which allows these judges to receive gifts worth any amount for their wedding or for their 25th and 50th wedding anniversaries.

Federal:

Capitol Metrics Bridges Lobbying and Data

Washington Post – Catherine Ho | Published: 12/1/2013

There were not many data-driven resources for lobbyists to research their competitors or potential merger partners. Then John Brain got the idea to create Capitol Metrics. It compiles lists of the top lobby firms by revenue, as well as the companies and associations that are spending the most on lobbying. Capitol Metrics also breaks down some of the data and packages it in a way that a lobbyist can better spot opportunities to pick up new business.

SEC Backs Off Corporate Giving Regs

The Hill – Ben Goad | Published: 12/2/2013

The Securities and Exchange Commission dropped a proposal to require publicly traded firms to disclose campaign spending to their shareholders from its list of regulatory priorities, a potential setback for watchdogs looking for ways to force some of the anonymous money in elections into public view. The issue drew more than 650,000 written comments, along with rebukes from trade groups, which argued the push was intended to silence of voice of business in politics.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Donation Cap for Political Campaigns Still in Place, for Now

East Valley Tribune – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 11/26/2013

The Arizona Supreme Court rejected a bid by top Republican lawmakers to allow campaign donors to give more while the justices review the legality of the increase. The justices agreed to give the GOP interests a chance to convince them the Court of Appeals erred in ruling the Legislature acted unconstitutionally earlier this year in approving the sharp increase. A hearing is set for December 17.

District of Columbia – Council Unanimously Approves Campaign Finance Reform Legislation

DCist.com – Matt Cohen and Sarah Anne Hughes | Published: 12/4/2013

The District of Columbia Council unanimously passed a campaign finance reform bill recently. The legislation will restrict contributions from related businesses and require campaigns to report all fundraising data online. The bill also limits money order donations to $100. Lobbyists will have to disclose any contributions bundled and forwarded to a campaign.

Louisiana – Super PAC Backing Sen. David Vitter Says State Has No Choice, Must Lift $100,000 Contribution Limit

New Orleans Times Picayune – Bruce Alpert | Published: 12/4/2013

The Fund for Louisiana’s Future, the super PAC created to support U.S. Sen. David Vitter, wants to end enforcement of the state’s $100,000 limit on independent committee donations. The U.S. Supreme Court’s 2010 ruling that equated spending on independent political expenditures with free speech, and a follow-up decision by a federal appeals court, makes it clear that such limits are unconstitutional, say lawyers for the PAC. Groups favoring limits on campaign spending do not necessarily disagree.

Minnesota – ‘Free Lunches’ Back on Menu for Minnesota Legislators

Minneapolis Star Tribune – Abby Simons | Published: 12/3/2013

For the first time in 19 years, Minnesota lawmakers and their staff will be allowed to eat and drink for free at receptions hosted by special interest groups, as long as all 201 legislators are invited at least five days in advance. Backers of the new law say the easing of what once was one of the strictest gift bans in the nation was needed as a way to restore camaraderie in an increasingly polarized Legislature. The law still prohibits lawmakers from accepting gifts in more exclusive gatherings.

Missouri – Prefiled Bills Suggest Ethics Reform on Agenda

Springfield News-Leader – Jonathan Shorman | Published: 12/4/2013

Eight ethics reform bills have been filed in the Missouri Senate by members of both parties. Senate Bill 486 would cap the amounts any one donor may give to a candidate: $25,000 for gubernatorial and statewide candidates, $10,000 for senators, and $2,500 for representatives and other public offices. Senate Bill 512 requires lawmakers to reimburse lobbyists for expenses within 30 days.

Nevada – Nevada Supreme Court Upholds Ethics Laws

San Francisco Chronicle – Sandra Chereb (Associated Press) | Published: 11/27/2013

The Nevada Supreme Court upheld the state Ethics Commission’s censure of a former Sparks City Council member who voted for a casino project even though his campaign manager was a consultant on the project. The decision reversed an earlier high court opinion that found the ethics law prohibited Councilperson Michael Carrigan from exercising his First Amendment rights to free speech.

New Mexico – New Mexico’s ‘Revolving Door’

Albuquerque Journal – Dan Boyd | Published: 11/29/2013

New Mexico lawmakers are free to resign one day and start lobbying the next. A recent report by a watchdog group identified 26 former legislators who work as lobbyists. Critics say the “revolving-door” practice erodes public trust in government by allowing former lawmakers to cash in on their expertise and connections with former colleagues.

New York – Report: Reform can’t wait

Albany Times Union – Casey Seiler | Published: 12/2/2013

A state commission investigating public corruption in New York recommended a system of public financing for state elections, an independent election-law enforcement agency, and stricter disclosure policies for legislators, saying a “permissive culture of both illegal and legal corruption” must change. Gov. Andrew Cuomo is expected to use the panel’s suggestions as the basis for a series of ethics law changes in 2014.

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Lobbying

“Partying Within the Rules | K Street Files” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.

“San Francisco sues former Supervisor Michael Yaki” by John Coté in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Campaign Finance

“Mitch McConnell’s Campaign Stumbles on Easy Steps” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Delaware: “State prepares to roll out campaign finance website” by James Dawson on NPR.

New York: “Future Of Public Campaign Finance Uncertain” by Karen DeWitt in WAMC Northeast Public Radio.

Ethics

Hawaii: “City’s lawyer subverting ethics panel, director says” by Gordon Y.K. Pang in the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

Kentucky: “Ethics Reporter: Celebrating 20 years of one of most comprehensive ethics laws in nation” by the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission in KyForward.

Virginia: “Ethics reforms unlikely to include criminal penalties, Marshall says” by Andrew Cain in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Congress

“Play of the Day: The Do-Nothing Congress Sets a Record” by Reena Flores in Government Executive.

“ʹDo-Nothingʹ Label Belongs to Democrats, Boehner Says (Video)” by JM Rieger in Roll Call.

“Voting By Electronic Device — In the Senate?” by Niels Lesniewski in Roll Call.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Ruck.us Dies Down; Yet Another Political Social Network Goes Bust” by Micah Sifry in TechPresident.

“California Lt. Governor Wants Cloud and Open Data Policies” by Brian Heaton in Government Technology.

“In Ottawa, Open Data App Competition Mysteriously Disappears” by Jessica McKenzie in TechPresident.

“For Some Feds, the Mobile Revolution Means the Workday Never Ends” in NextGov.